Piazza di San Giovanni 2, Florence, Italy | (618) 248-8274
Simple, homey bed-and-breakfast with great views to the Duomo
Convenient central location opposite the Piazza del Duomo
Owner Giuliana offers personalized service and ample insider’s tips
Original period features including frescoed ceilings
Traditional decor and antique pieces reflecting an authentic Florentine lifestyle
Comfortable rooms with decent amenities including minibar and air-conditioning
Over half of rooms have excellent views of the Duomo
Breakfast served in rooms (and personalized as much as possible)
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Discounted garage parking nearby
Some furnishings in rooms are a bit worn
Limited check-in hours
Simple Florentine comfort and great Duomo views are the major highlights at A Florence View B&B -- a family-run, two-and-a-half-pearl establishment on the square opposite the Duomo. Set in a 17th-century palazzo, this modest property has original features including frescoed ceilings, and although facilities are basic, personalized service and an excellent location make it good value for money. Breakfast is tailored to guest preferences, and served directly to the room by friendly host Giuliana. Although some furnishings may be worn, rooms are clean and comfortable, with a decent range of amenities including minibars and air-conditioning -- over half have great Duomo views. Free Wi-Fi throughout and discounted garage parking round out the features. For a family-friendly option with spectacular Duomo views, try the apartments at Palazzo Gamba across the square.
Scene
Simple, homely bed and breakfast with great views to the Duomo and an intimate atmosphere
Great Duomo views and a homey vibe are major draws at A Florence View B&B -- a simple, but comfortable option right on the Piazza di San Giovanni and opposite the Duomo. Although the reception area feels somewhat cramped, host Giuliana gives a warm welcome, and original period features such as frescoed ceilings add historical charm. Set in a 17th-century palazzo and furnished with antiques, this family-run bed-and-breakfast provides an authentic window into classical Florentine living, attracting many couples from the U.K., U.S., Italy, and China. The hotel’s small size (only nine rooms) means it's an intimate place, and even the breakfast -- served to the room by Giuliana herself -- is tailored to guest preferences as much as possible.
Location
Sandwiched between a pub and sunglasses shop on the Piazza di San Giovanni, just opposite the Duomo
A Florence View B&B is right on the Piazza di San Giovanni: the Baptistery is in full view, and the Duomo is just opposite. Plenty of tourist-catering shops and pubs on the block provide convenient quick stops, and the Duomo is less than a minute away on foot. Other major attractions are within easy walking distance: it’s a seven-minute walk to the Mercato di San Lorenzo’s popular food halls, the Accademia Gallery, and Via de’ Tornabuoni’s designer storefronts. An eight-minute stroll brings you to the Uffizi Gallery, while the main train station is 11 minutes away on foot. Florence’s airport is a 30-minute taxi ride from the hotel.
Rooms
Clean and comfortable with unique antique pieces and decent amenities – over half with excellent Duomo views
Rooms at this family-run best-and-breakfast are modest, but comfortable, with a decent range of amenities including minibars, tea- and coffee-making facilities, air-conditioning, small flat-screen TVs, soundproofing, free Wi-Fi, and free safes. Furnishings may be a bit worn, but the antique furniture and original features -- including frescoed ceilings in some units -- provide an authentic experience. Rooms are categorized into those with and without views: over half have great views to the San Giovanni Baptistery, as well as the Duomo, which sits just opposite. Bathrooms are clean and come in different shapes and sizes, with unique touches and most with showers. The soundproofing is effective, but some noise may still be audible -- it's a busy part of town, after all.
Features
Basic essentials delivered with a personalized touch, including in-room breakfasts
A Florence View B&B comes with the basic essentials: a modest reception area and breakfast served to the room, but no additional facilities. This isn’t an issue, however, as there are plenty of places to eat in the area. Breakfast is a highlight, which owner Giuliana tries to personalize as much as possible, and generally includes croissants, pastries, eggs if desired, Italian cold cuts, and fresh coffee. Guests celebrating special occasions are usually surprised with small gifts, and the hosts offer a wealth of local insights. Although check-in hours are limited, Giuliana will accommodate any out-of-hours arrivals -- just be sure to inquire beforehand. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, along with discounted garage parking (no valet service included).